Functions & Charters

No matter what your event is, Essex Steam Train & Riverboat can make it extra special with a variety of choices. From the Riverboat to the Dinner Train, to our grounds and facilities, Essex Steam Train can make your event the talk of all your friends!

Dinner Train Charters

Riverboat Charters

Breathtaking views from the Becky Thatcher riverboat set the stage for a memorable party, wedding, rehearsal dinner, family reunion, or corporate event. Our riverboat, a Connecticut River Valley fixture, is available for evening charter, May – October.

Seasonal Excursions

Music on the Riverboat–
What could be more enjoyable than live music while sailing down the Connecticut River and watching a gorgeous sunset? NOTHING! And that’s why we’re offering four nights of music on The Becky Thatcher Riverboat.

Essex Clipper Dinner Train– May through October
An elegant four-course meal served in beautifully restored 1920’s Pullman diners, pulled by a vintage diesel locomotive.

Rhythm by the Rails–
Rhythm by the Rails, a FREE live lawn concert series throughout the summer at Essex Station.

Chocolate and Wine Cruise–August 9
It’s a match made in heaven and we’re bringing it to you on Thursday, September 14th when we host the “Chocolate and Wine Cruise” (*designed for adults only) as one of the new line-up of events at Essex Steam Train and Riverboat.

Brats and Beer Cruise– September 6 & October 11
Join us for our “three B” cruise! Beer, Bratwurst and Beautiful Fall Foliage on the Connecticut River.

Swallow Cruise – Saturday Evenings, SeptemberTake the Becky Thatcher to a spectacular natural phenomenon as hundreds of thousands of Tree Swallows swarm as a beautifully choreographed flock over Goose Island each evening at sunset.

Haddam Special – Weekends in OctoberA delightful fall foliage excursion, combining sight-seeing, shopping, dining, and culture in the towns of Haddam and East Haddam.

North Pole Express – Weekends and Weekdays, mid-November through December
Board our locomotive-powered sleigh…for a magical nighttime journey to the North Pole.

Santa Special– Weekends from Black Friday through December
A daytime holiday train ride, with special guests Santa and Mrs. Claus, and other North Pole visitors.

Eagle Flyer– FebruaryA 2½-hour eco-excursion, with local station stops in Deep River, Chester, Eagle Landing State Park and Haddam.

Hand on the Throttle– Click for active dates
A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn about and actually operate a full size steam locomotive.

Day Out with Thomas – End-April / Beginning-May
A real live train ride with Thomas the Tank Engine, plus tons of kid-friendly activities.

Day Out with Mom– MayA special outing for the special women in our lives. Treat Mom to a memorable Steam Train and Riverboat ride, complete with a complimentary potted Marigold plant for Mom to enjoy all summer long!